MANS and ATM: evolution, interconnection, and interworking

This paper, based on work within RACE project R1022 -- `Technology for ATD,' places the evolution of MANs towards ATM within the overall context of ATM introduction and evolution. Beginning with a major motivating factor, the need for LAN to LAN interconnection, a likely evolution of MANs is described, from first introduction, through interconnection via the ATM cross connect network, to the provision of connectionless data service over the ATM network. The introduction and evolution of ATM in general is then considered. This begins with a review of basic introductory approaches (substitution, island, overlay) and how they can be applied. An overview of the main customer groupings and their likely service requirements is provided as a precursor to discussing how fiber will be used in the access network for both business and residential customers. The paper concludes with an assessment of how MAN evolution towards ATM fits within the overall context of ATM introduction and the provision of broadband services.